Hyundai is set to shake up the SUV market with the upcoming fifth-generation Tucson, a model that aims to steal buyers from key rivals with its rugged new look. The Korean brand is taking inspiration from its larger Santa Fe model, giving the Tucson a boxy and more upright stance that is sure to turn heads.
Expected to hit the market in the latter half of next year, the new Tucson will feature Hyundai’s ‘Art of Steel’ design language, as seen on the Santa Fe and the Nexo. Test mules of the Tucson have been spotted on public roads, showcasing a longer bonnet, chunkier wheel arches, and a more SUV-like appearance compared to its predecessor.
Hyundai’s design chief, Simon Loasby, has emphasized the importance of giving each model in the lineup its own unique cues, rather than making them all look like “Russian dolls.” The Tucson’s new design is expected to result in more interior space, potentially improving on the current model’s already impressive 620-litre boot capacity.
Inside, the Tucson will feature Hyundai’s next-generation interior, with a focus on safety and simplicity. This may include a smaller infotainment display, more physical buttons, and simpler touchscreen software. Powertrain options are likely to mirror those of the Santa Fe, offering a choice between a 212bhp 1.6-litre turbo petrol hybrid or a 249bhp plug-in hybrid.
The Tucson is a crucial model for Hyundai as it continues to grow its presence in Europe and compete with established brands like Volkswagen and BMW. With around 600,000 global sales recorded last year, the Tucson has been a major contributor to Hyundai’s success and is expected to further solidify its position in the SUV market.
Overall, the 2026 Hyundai Tucson promises to be a game-changer in the family SUV segment, combining rugged styling, advanced technology, and efficient powertrains to appeal to a wide range of buyers. Stay tuned for more updates on this highly anticipated model as it gets closer to its official launch date.
